Oder Border Meanders Observation Tower

The Oder Border Meanders Observation Tower stands in Chałupki, in the municipality of Krzyżanowice, right by the border with the Czech Republic. From its top you can see the bends of the Oder, which along this stretch marks the state border.

What you can see from the tower

The tower looks out over the Oder Border Meanders area, that is a stretch of the river valley about 7 km long, from the former Chałupki-Bohumín border crossing south to the mouth of the Olza. The area lies at an altitude of 193-198 m above sea level. On the Polish side it is protected by an area of 162 ha, established on 29 October 2004, and on the Czech side by a natural monument of 126.36 ha, recognised on 6 September 2006. Both parts belong to the Natura 2000 network (Graniczny Meander Odry, PLH240013). Beavers, badgers, otters and white-tailed eagles live here, and pike and mussels in the river.

Nature trails

Two nature trails start by the tower: “Pętla - Meandry Rzeki Odry” and “Ścieżka przyrodnicza Meandry Rzeki Odry”. There is also a shelter next to the tower.

Practical information

• Location: Chałupki, municipality of Krzyżanowice, Racibórz County.
• In the area you can see the palace in Chałupki and the palace park.
• Check the rules of entry to the tower and the course of the trails with the Krzyżanowice municipal office.